Managing stress and anxiety during pregnancy

Is it common to be anxious a lot during pregnancy?

Pregnancy brings out the worrywart in all of us. And for good reason: You’re growing a life inside of you.

It’s natural to fret about what you eat, drink, think, feel, and do. It’s also perfectly normal to worry about whether your baby is healthy, how this new person will change your life and relationships, and whether you’re truly up to the task of parenthood. But if your anxiety is becoming all-consuming and regularly interferes with your day-to-day functioning, it’s time to find a better way to deal with it.

To start, gently share your fears with your partner — even if they’re about him. Chances are he’s harboring concerns of his own.

Communicating openly about your anxiety can help you both feel better. Turn to friends or family members for support, too. Other moms-to-be are another source of support, as they’re probably experiencing the same worries you are.

If you’re extremely anxious or have a specific reason to be concerned about your baby’s health, share your concerns with your caregiver. If anxiety still plagues you after you’ve aired your worries and checked in on your baby’s well-being, professional counseling can help you get to the bottom of your troubles.

I have a lot of stress in my life right now. Will it affect my baby?

While everyday pressure is a part of modern life, a high level of chronic stress can boost your odds of preterm labor or of delivering a low-birthweight baby. If you’re used to caring for others or giving 110 percent at work, making yourself a priority may seem unnatural or even selfish.